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Abstract:

A card and currency carrying device is shown. The device includes a first
side member assembly and a spaced second side member assembly. Each side
member assembly has a flexible member, preferably stainless steel, having
an undeflected position and a deflected position which is responsive to a
compression deflection force applied concurrently to flexible members. A
first pair and a second pair of support members are operatively connected
to the flexible members. An elastic fabric material, preferably a woven
elastic fabric material, having a thickness which reduces in dimension in
response to a longitudinal tension force and which maintains its width
dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force is operatively
connected to the support members.

Claims:

1. A device comprising: a first side member assembly and a spaced second
side member assembly, each of the first side member assembly and the
second side member assembly having a flexible member having a first end
and an opposed second end, each of the flexible members having an
undeflected position wherein the first end and the second end are
generally planar to each other and a deflected position responsive to a
compression deflection force applied concurrently to the first end and
the second end of each of the flexible members, wherein the flexible
members are urged in opposition directions to each other forming a
receiving opening; and an elastic member having a thickness which reduces
in dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force and which
maintains its width dimension in response to a longitudinal tension
force, the elastic member being operatively coupled to the first pair of
support members and the second pair of support members, wherein the
elastic member is expanded by a longitudinal tension force in response to
a compression deflection source concurrently applied to the first side
member assembly and the second side member assembly including the
flexible members forming a receiving opening and contracting the elastic
member back into its original position in response to a compression
deflection force being removed from the first side member assembly and
the second side member assembly.

2. The device of claim 1 wherein the elastic member is plural segments
each having a selected length and terminating in opposed attachment ends.

3. The device of claim 1 wherein the elastic member is formed into an
endless loop.

4. The device of claim 1 wherein the flexible members are spring steel.

5. A device comprising: two spaced, opposed, planar, deflectable spring
members having a central section and an elongated central axis, each of
the spring members having a first end and an opposed second end, each of
the spring members having an undeflected position wherein the first end
and the second end are generally planar to each other and located along
the central axis and a deflected position responsive to a compression
deflection force applied concurrently to the first end and the second end
of each of the spring members wherein the central sections thereof are
urged in opposing directions to each other forming a receiving opening; a
first pair of planar support members operatively connected to each side
of and enclosing one of the deflectable spring members; a second pair of
planar support members operatively connected on to each side of and
enclosing the other of the deflectable spring members; and a
longitudinally extendable, elastic member having a thickness which
reduces in dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force and
which maintains the dimension of its width dimension in response to a
longitudinal tension force, the elastic member being operatively coupled
to one of the first pair and the second pair of support members; wherein
the elastic member is expanded in response to a longitudinal tension
force generated in response to a compression deflection source being
applied to the spring members urging the central sections thereof into
opposing directions to each other forming a receiving opening and
contracting the elastic member back into its original position responsive
to a compression deflection source being removed from the spring members
forming a clamping force within the space between the spring members.

6. The device of claim 5 wherein the elastic member is formed into an
endless loop and wherein the elastic member is operatively connected with
the first pair of support members and the second pair of support members
and the pair of spaced deflectable spring members.

7. The device of claim 5 wherein the first pair of support members and
the second pair of support members are formed of leather material.

8. The device of claim 5 wherein the elastic member has an overall width
in the range of about 1/2 inch to about 1 and 1/2 inches.

9. A method of making a device comprising: assembling a first side member
assembly and a second side member assembly, each of the first side member
assembly and the second side member assembly having a flexible member
having a first end and an opposed second end, each of the flexible
members having an undeflected position wherein the first end and the
second end are generally planar to each other and a deflected position
responsive to a compression deflection force applied concurrently to the
first end and the second end of each of the flexible members, wherein the
flexible members are urged in opposition directions to each other forming
a receiving opening; and operatively coupling the first pair of support
members and the second pair of support members with an elastic member
having a thickness which reduces in dimension in response to a
longitudinal tension force and which maintains its width dimension in
response to a longitudinal tension force, wherein the elastic member is
expanded by a longitudinal tension force in response to a compression
deflection source concurrently applied to the first side member assembly
and the second side member assembly including the flexible members
forming a receiving opening and contracting the elastic member back into
its original position in response to a compression deflection force being
removed from the first side member assembly and the second side member
assembly.

10. A device comprising: a first side member assembly and a spaced second
side member assembly, each of the first side member assembly and the
second side member assembly having a flexible member having a first end
and an opposed second end, each of the flexible members having an
undeflected position wherein the first end and the second end are
generally planar to each other and a deflected position responsive to a
compression deflection force applied concurrently to the first end and
the second end of each of the flexible members wherein the flexible
members are urged in opposing directions to each other forming a
receiving opening; a first pair of planar support members and a second
pair of planar support members operatively connected to each side of and
enclosing each of the flexible members forming each of the first side
member assembly and the second side member assembly; and an elastic
member having a thickness which reduces in dimension in response to a
longitudinal tension force and which maintains its width dimension in
response to a longitudinal tension force, the elastic member being
operatively coupled to the first pair of support members and the second
pair of support members and each of the flexible members, wherein the
elastic member is expanded by a longitudinal tension force in response to
a compression deflection source concurrently applied to the first side
member assembly and the second side member assembly including the
flexible members forming a receiving opening and contracting the elastic
fabric material back into its original position in response to a
compression deflection force being removed from the first side member
assembly and the second side member assembly.

11. The device of claim 10 wherein the elastic member is a woven, elastic
fabric material formed into a pair of fabric material segments.

12. The device of claim 10 wherein the elastic member is an endless loop
operatively connected to the flexible members.

13. The device of claim 10 wherein the elastic member is an endless loop
operatively connected to the first pair and the second pair of support
members.

14. The device of claim 10 wherein the flexible members are spring steel.

15. The device of claim 10 wherein the support members are leather.

Description:

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] Not Applicable

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not Applicable

REFERENCE TO A "MICROFICHE APPENDIX" (SEE 37 CFR 1.96)

[0003] Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] 1. Field of the Invention

[0005] The present invention relates to a card and currency carrying
device having a pair of spaced side members for holding and securing at
least one item of folded currency and at least one card and more
particularly to a first side member assembly and a spaced second side
member assembly, each having a flexible member which is responsive to a
compression deflection force applied concurrently to the flexible
members, a first pair and second pair planar support members enclosing
each of the flexible members and an elastic fabric material, preferably a
woven, elastic fabric material, having a thickness which reduces in
dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force and which maintains
its width dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force.

[0006] In the preferred embodiment, the card and currency device comprises
a pair of spaced deflectable stainless steel spring members responsive to
a compression deflection force, two pairs of planar support members
operatively connected to and enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable
stainless steel spring members and a woven, elastic fabric material
having a thickness which reduces in dimension in response to a
longitudinal tension force and which maintains its width dimension in
response to a longitudinal tension force wherein the woven, elastic
fabric material is expanded in response to a compression deflection
source being applied to the pair of spaced deflectable stainless steel
spring members to enable a user to insert folded currency and/or cards
into the device.

[0007] 2. Description of the Prior Art

[0008] Money band and money clips for holding currency and cards,
including credit cards, business cards and the like, and devices for
wrapping packages or securing bundles are well known in the prior art.
The following are illustrative examples of known devices.

[0009] One example of a currency securing and carrying device is disclosed
in U.S. Pat. No. 6,357,084. U.S. Pat. No. 6,357,084 discloses a device
for securing and carrying currency wherein the device has a strap having
a first side, a second side, a first end and a second end, a length, a
width and a thickness. The device includes a fastening mechanism having a
first element and a second element wherein the first element is located
on the second side of the strap proximal to the second end of the strap.
The second element is located on the first side of the strap proximal to
the first end of the strap. A thumb tab is secured to the strap at or
near the first end of the strap and extends outwardly from the strap in
the width direction and normal to the length. The currency is folded
twice around its vertical width central axis and has cards inserted into
the twice-folded currency. The strap extends along the elongated axis of
the currency to secure the currency and cards in the device.

[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 6,205,622 discloses a method and apparatus for
holding paper currency and credit cards. The method disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,205,622 is for holding money and is a money clip or band
designed to efficiently accommodate and hold all amounts and quantities
of paper currency. The money clip uses a continuous row of outer members
and a continuous row of inner members that are interconnected through a
linkage system that provides for the longitudinal displacement of the
outer member and inner members relative to one another to receive and
hold the paper currency inserted therein. The band is very sturdy and
flexible to provide for reversibility in that it may be rotated 180
degrees so that either side may be use as the exposed outer display
surface. The exposed outer display is presented with an attractive
display.

[0011] The currency is folded once around its vertical width central axis.
The cards are stacked beside the folded currency and the longitudinal
axis of the cards are planar with the elongated axis of the currency. The
strap extends substantially perpendicular to the elongated axis of the
currency and cards to secure the currency and cards in the device.

[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 5,367,752 discloses an expandable wrapping ribbon for
simply and quickly wrapping packages or securing bundles. The elastic
element of the apparatus is hidden and protected by a sheath. Various
modes of attaching decorative and identifying items to the apparatus are
disclosed. The apparatus is intended to be ornamental as well as
functional.

[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 5,279,019 discloses a credit card and money-carrying
device. The credit card and money carrying device comprises an endless
band of elastic material and a plate member folded around the elastic
band wherein the plate member is crimped providing engagement of the
crimped portion of the plate in the elastic band.

[0014] The currency is folded once around its vertical width central axis.
The cards are stacked beside the folded currency and the longitudinal
axis of the cards are planar with the elongated axis of the currency. The
strap extends substantially parallel to the elongated axis of the
currency and cards to secure the currency and cards in the device with
the free ends of the currency secured by the money carrying device.

[0015] An article entitled The Money Band, www.moneyband.com, three (3)
pages, Aug. 7, 2006 (the "Moneyband Reference") discloses a money band in
the form of a plush, durable band similar to the credit card and
money-carrying device disclosed in the U.S. Pat. No. 5,279,019. The
credit card and money-carrying device of the Moneyband Reference
comprises an endless band of elastic material and a plate member folded
around the elastic band.

[0016] The currency is folded once around its vertical width central axis.
The cards are stacked inside the fold of the folded currency and the
longitudinal axis of the cards are planar with the elongated axis of the
currency. The endless band of elastic material extends substantially
parallel to the elongated axis of the currency and cards to secure the
currency and cards in the device with the free ends of the currency
secured by the carrying device.

[0017] None of the known prior art anticipates, discloses, teaches or
suggests a card and currency carrying device comprising a first side
member assembly and a spaced second side member assembly and wherein each
of the first side member assembly and the second side member assembly
have a flexible member having a first end and an opposed second end and
wherein each of the flexible members have an undeflected position and a
deflected position responsive to a compression deflection force applied
concurrently to the first end and the second end of each of the flexible
members wherein the flexible members are urged in opposition directions
to each other forming a receiving opening, a first pair and second pair
of planar support members enclosing each of the flexible members forming
each of the first side member assembly and the second side member
assembly and a woven, elastic fabric material having a thickness which
reduces in dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force and
which maintains its width dimension in response to a longitudinal tension
force.

[0018] None of the known prior art anticipates, discloses, teaches or
suggests a preferred embodiment of a card and currency carrying device
comprising a pair of spaced, deflectable spring members having an
undeflected position and a deflected position responsive to a compression
deflection force applied concurrently to the ends of each of the spring
members wherein the central sections thereof are urged in opposition
directions to each other forming a receiving opening, a first pair of
planar support members enclosing one of the deflectable spring members, a
second pair of planar support members enclosing the other of the pair of
the deflectable spring members and a woven, longitudinally extendable,
elastic fabric material having a thickness which reduces in dimension in
response to a longitudinal tension force and which maintains the
dimension of its width dimension in response to a longitudinal tension
force.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The present invention seeks to overcome the problems of the prior
art by providing, in its broadest aspect, a card and currency-carrying
device comprising a first side member assembly and a spaced second side
member assembly. Each of the first side member assembly and the second
side member assembly have a flexible member having a first end and an
opposed second end. Each of the flexible members have an undeflected
position wherein the first end and the second end are generally planar to
each other and a deflected position responsive to a compression
deflection force applied concurrently to the first end and the second end
of each of the flexible members wherein the flexible members are urged in
opposition directions to each other forming a receiving opening. A first
pair of generally rectangular shaped, planar support member and second
pair of generally rectangular shaped, planar support members are
operatively connected to each side of and encloses each of the flexible
members forming each of the first side member assembly and the second
side member assembly. An elastic fabric material, preferably a woven,
elastic fabric material, having a thickness which reduces in dimension in
response to a longitudinal tension force and which maintains its width
dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force is operatively
coupled to the first pair and the second pair of support members and each
of said flexible members. The elastic fabric material is expanded by a
longitudinal tension force in response to a compression deflection source
concurrently applied to the first side member assembly and the second
side member assembly including the flexible members forming a receiving
opening and is contracted back into its original position in response to
a compression deflection force being removed from the first side member
assembly and the second side member assembly.

[0020] In the preferred embodiment, the card and currency carrying device
comprises a pair of spaced, opposed, generally rectangular shaped,
planar, deflectable spring members having a central section and an
elongated central axis. Each of the spring members having a first end and
an opposed second end and each have an undeflected position wherein the
first end and the second end are generally planar to each other and
located along the elongated central axis and a deflected position
responsive to a compression deflection force applied concurrently to the
first end and the second end of each of the spring members wherein the
central sections thereof are urged in opposition directions to each other
forming a receiving opening. A first pair of generally rectangular
shaped, planar support members are operatively connected on to each side
of and encloses one of the pair of spaced, opposed, generally rectangular
shaped, planar, deflectable spring members and a second pair of generally
rectangular shaped, planar support members are operatively connected on
to each side of and encloses the other of the pair of spaced, opposed,
generally rectangular shaped, planar, deflectable spring members. A
woven, longitudinally extendable, elastic fabric material having a
thickness which reduces in dimension in response to a longitudinal
tension force and which maintains the dimension of its width dimension in
response to a longitudinal tension force is operatively coupled to one of
the first pair and the second pair of generally rectangular shaped,
planar support members enclosing the pair of spaced, opposed, generally
rectangular shaped, planar, deflectable spring members. The woven elastic
fabric material is expanded in responsive to a longitudinal tension force
generated in response to a compression deflection source being applied to
the pair of spaced deflectable spring members urging the central sections
thereof in opposition directions to each other forming a receiving
opening and is contracted back into its original position in responsive
to a compression deflection source being removed from the pair of spaced
deflectable spring members forming a clamping force within the space
between the pair of spaced deflectable spring members.

[0021] Also a method for carrying a card and currency is disclosed and
taught by the present invention. The method comprises comprising the
steps of: (a) forming a card and currency carrying device having a pair
of spaced deflectable spring members wherein each of the spring members
having a first end and an opposed second end, each of the spring members
have an undeflected position wherein the first end and the second end are
generally planar to each other and a deflected position responsive to a
compression deflection force applied concurrently to the first end and
the second end of each of the spring members wherein deflectable spring
members are urged in opposition directions to each other forming a
receiving opening, a first pair and second pair of generally rectangular
shaped, planar support members operatively connected to each side of and
encloses the pair of spaced deflectable spring members and a woven,
elastic fabric material, having a thickness which reduces in dimension in
response to a longitudinal tension force and which maintains its width
dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force wherein an elastic
fabric material, preferably woven, elastic fabric material, is
operatively coupled to the first pair and the second pair of support
members enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable spring members and
wherein the woven, elastic fabric material is expanded in response to a
compression deflection source being applied to the pair of spaced
deflectable spring members forming a receiving opening and is contracted
back into its original position in responsive to a compression deflection
source being removed from the pair of spaced deflectable spring members;
(b) folding at least one item of currency in half along its vertical
width center line which is substantially perpendicular to its vertical
width central axis and placing in the fold thereof along its central axis
at least one card; (c) applying a compression deflection force
concurrently to the first end and the second end of each of the spring
members wherein deflectable spring members are urged in opposition
directions to each other forming a receiving opening; (d) inserting at an
angle into the receiving opening the folded at least one item of currency
and at least one card located in the fold thereof and positioning the
same with its central axis substantially perpendicular to the first pair
and the second pair of generally rectangular shaped, planar support
members; and (e) removing a compression deflection force applied
concurrently to the first end and the second end of each of the spring
members wherein deflectable spring members are urged back into its
original, generally planar position holding and securing the folded at
least one item of currency and at least one card located in the fold
thereof.

[0022] In use of the card and currency device of the present invention,
the currency is folded once around its vertical width central axis. The
cards are positioned inside the folded currency and the longitudinal axis
of the cards are planar with the elongated axis of the currency. The card
and currency carrying device first side member assembly and the second
side member assembly extend substantially perpendicular to the elongated
axis of the currency and credit cards to secure the currency and cards in
the device with the free ends of the currency exposes to the user for
ease of removal.

[0023] The known prior art does not anticipate, disclose, suggest or teach
a simple, easy to use card and currency device comprising a pair of
spaced, opposed, deflectable spring members having an undeflected
position and a deflected position responsive to a compression deflection
force applied concurrently thereto, a first pair of support members
operatively connected on to and enclosing one of the pair of spaced,
opposed, generally rectangular shaped, planar, deflectable spring
members, a second pair of planar support members operatively connected on
to and enclosing the other of the pair of spaced deflectable spring
members and a woven, longitudinally extendable, elastic fabric material,
preferably, a woven, elastic fabric material having a thickness which
reduces in dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force and
which maintains the dimension of its width dimension in response to a
longitudinal tension force.

[0024] Therefore, it is an advantage of the present invention to provide a
card and currency carrying device having a first side member assembly and
second side member assembly, a pair of deflectable spring members having
an undeflected position and a deflected position responsive to a
compression deflection force applied concurrently thereto operatively
connected by an elastic fabric material, which in the preferred
embodiment is a woven, longitudinally extendable, elastic fabric
material, having a thickness which reduces in dimension in response to a
longitudinal tension force and which maintains the dimension of its width
dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force.

[0025] Another advantage to the present invention is that the card and
currency carrying device in use has the currency folded once around its
vertical width central axis, the cards are positioned inside the folded
currency and the longitudinal axis of the cards are planar with the
elongated axis of the currency. The card and currency carrying devices
first side member assembly and the second side member assembly extend
substantially perpendicular to the elongated axis of the currency and
cards to secure the currency and cards in the device with the free ends
of the currency exposed to the user for ease of removal.

[0026] Another advantage to the present invention is that in one
embodiment of the card and currency carrying device the woven, elastic
fabric material is formed into pair of fabric material segments each
having a selected length and terminating in opposed attachment ends
wherein each of the opposed attachment ends are operatively connected to
the first end and second end of each of the first pair and second pair of
support member which apply a longitudinal tension force to and expand
each of the fabric material segments in response to a compression
deflection force being applied to the first side member assembly and the
second side member assembly.

[0027] Another advantage to the present invention is that in another
embodiment of the card and currency carrying device the woven, elastic
fabric material is formed into an endless loop having a selected diameter
and wherein the woven elastic fabric material is positioned to be in
operative connection with the first pair and the second pair of support
members and the flexible members.

[0028] Another advantage to the present invention is that in another
embodiment of the card and currency carrying device the woven, elastic
fabric material is formed into an endless loop having a selected diameter
and wherein the woven, elastic fabric material is positioned to be
operative connection to the first pair and said second pair of support
members.

[0029] Another advantage to the present invention is that in its preferred
embodiment the card and currency carrying device flexible members are a
pair of spaced deflectable stainless steel spring members.

[0030] Another advantage to the present invention is that in the card and
currency carrying device the first pair and second pair of generally
rectangular shaped, planar support members are leather.

[0031] Another advantage to the present invention is that in the card and
currency carrying device the first pair and second pair of generally
rectangular shaped, planar support members are leather having stitching
located around its periphery.

[0032] Another advantage to the present invention is that in the card and
currency carrying device the flexible members are a pair of spaced
deflectable stainless steel spring members and the first pair and second
pair of generally rectangular shaped, planar support members are leather
which are affixed to the stainless steel spring members using adjustable
adhesive, bonding material or glue.

[0033] Another advantage to the present invention is that in the card and
currency carrying device the first pair and second pair of generally
rectangular shaped, planar support members are vinyl.

[0034] Another advantage to the present invention is that in the card and
currency carrying device the first pair and second pair of generally
rectangular shaped, planar support members are cloth.

[0035] Another advantage to the present invention is that in the card and
currency carrying device is that woven, elastic fabric material is
operatively connected to the first pair and the second pair of support
members enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable spring members
preferably has an overall height of 2 and 5/8 inches to accommodate
currency of the United States.

[0036] Another advantage to the present invention is that in the card and
currency carrying device is that woven, elastic fabric material is
operatively connected to the first pair and the second pair of support
members enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable spring members and which
is selected to have an overall height to accommodate any desired
currency.

[0037] Another advantage to the present invention is that in the card and
currency carrying device is that woven, elastic fabric material is
operatively connected to the first pair and the second pair of support
members enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable spring members has an
overall width in the range of about 1/2 inch to about 1 and 1/2 inches.

[0038] Another advantage to the present invention is that in the card and
currency carrying device is that woven, elastic fabric material
operatively connected to the first pair and the second pair of support
members enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable spring members has an
overall width of about 3/4 of an inch.

[0039] Another advantage of the present invention is that a card, such as
for example a credit card, is inserted into or positioned within the
currency which is folded in half along its vertical width central axis
with the card extending substantially perpendicular to the central axis
and the folded currency and card are positioned with the receiving
opening of the card and currency carrying device and a user can remove
the card directly from the folded currency and card and currency carrying
device without having to remove the currency and card from the card and
currency carrying device.

[0040] Another advantage to the present invention is a method for using
the carrying a card and currency comprising is disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0041] The present invention will become more fully understood from the
following detailed description of a preferred but non-limiting embodiment
thereof, described in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0042] FIG. 1 is a front, bottom and right side perspective view of a card
and currency carry device having a first side member assembly and a
second side member assembly operatively connected by an elastic fabric
material which in the preferred embodiment is a woven, elastic fabric
material;

[0043] FIG. 2 is a back, top and left side perspective view of the card
and currency carry device of FIG. 1;

[0044] FIG. 3 is a front plan view thereof;

[0045] FIG. 4 is a right side elevational view thereof;

[0046] FIG. 5 is a left side elevational view thereof;

[0047] FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view thereof;

[0048] FIG. 7 is a top plan view thereof;

[0049] FIG. 8 is a left side elevational view of the card and currency
carry device of FIG. 1 showing a card and small amount of folded currency
holding a card being stored in the card and currency carry device;

[0050] FIG. 9 is a front plan view of the card and currency carrying
device of FIG. 3 rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise with the left side
being positioned at the bottom location and showing in dashed lines a
card and small amount of folded currency of any country secured by the
card and currency carrying device;

[0051] FIG. 10 is a left side elevational view of the card and currency
carry device of FIG. 3 rotated to degrees counter clockwise with the left
side showing a large number of cards and large amount of folded currency
securing the cards being stored in the card and currency carry device;

[0052] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the first side member assembly
and a second side member assembly of the preferred embodiment of a card
and currency carrying device operatively connected by a pair of woven,
fabric material segments each having a selected length and terminating in
opposed attachment ends;

[0053] FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the a
card and currency carrying device having a pair of spaced, deflectable
spring members each having an undeflected position and a deflected
position responsive to a compression deflection force applied
concurrently thereto, a first pair and a second pair of planar support
members operatively connected on to each side of and enclosing the other
of said pair of spaced, deflectable spring members and endless loop of a
woven, longitudinally extendable, elastic fabric material having a
predetermined length located between each of the outer planar support
members and its adjacent deflectable spring forming an operative
arrangement there between;

[0054] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the
a card and currency carrying device having a pair of spaced, deflectable
spring members each having an undeflected position and a deflected
position responsive to a compression deflection force applied
concurrently thereto, a first pair and a second pair of planar support
members operatively connected on to each side of and enclosing the other
of said pair of spaced, deflectable spring members and endless loop of a
woven, longitudinally extendable, elastic fabric material having a
predetermined length located between each of the inner planar support
member and its adjacent deflectable spring forming an operative
arrangement there between;

[0055] FIG. 14 A is a front view of the card and currency carrying device
rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise with the left side being positioned
at a bottom location and in position for a user to perform the step of
inserting folded currency of any country and a card to be secured by the
card and currency carrying device;

[0056] FIG. 14 B illustrates the step of folding currency once along it
vertical width central axis and inserting in the fold a credit card that
extends substantially parallel to the elongated central axis of the
currency;

[0057] FIG. 14 C illustrates the step of a user applying a compression
deflection force between the ends of the card and currency carrying
device forming a receiving opening between the side member assemblies and
the step of inserting in the receiving open at a slight angle the once
folded currency and the credit card that extends substantially parallel
to the elongated central axis of the currency; and

[0058] FIG. 14 D illustrates the step of a user removing the compression
deflection force between the ends of the card and currency carrying
device urging the side member assemblies into their undeflected position
securing the once folded currency and the credit card that extends
substantially parallel to the elongate central axis of the currency.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Background

[0059] The present fashion trend is for a user to have a single small
holder that replaces a conventional wallet or the like. The holder is
designed to be small, compact and fashionable for easy use as a credit
card and currency carrying device and specifically designed and
structured to receive and store one or more cards such as credit cards,
identification cards or the like and a desired amount of currency of any
country. The design concept is for an acceptable card and currency
carrying device that is configured to be sized dimensionally for the
specific purpose of being carried in a pocket, purse or other location on
the person and a device that is easy to use for both inserting and
retrieving a card or currency therefrom and which, during use,
effectively stores and hold cards and currency therein.

Preferred Embodiment of Card and Currency Carrying Device

[0060] As a result of the above described need, a novel and unique card
and currency carrying device and a method of using the same has been
developed.

[0061] FIGS. 1 through 7 disclose a card and currency-carrying device
shown generally as 20 having a first side member assembly 22 and a spaced
second side member assembly 24. In this embodiment, the first side member
assembly 22 and a spaced second side member assembly 24, are of similar
structure. Each of the first side member assembly 20 and the second side
member assembly 24 have a flexible member 28 and 30 as shown in FIG. 11.
As shown in FIG. 11, the flexible member 28 has a first end 36 and an
opposed second end 38. The flexible member 30 has a first end 40 and an
opposed second end 42. Each of the flexible members 28 and 30 have an
undeflected position wherein the first ends 36 and 40 and the second ends
38 and 42 are generally planar to each other.

[0062] In addition, each of the flexible members 28 and 30 have an
deflected position wherein the first ends 36 and 40 and the second end 38
and 42 are responsive to a compression deflection force applied
concurrently to the first ends 36 and 40 and the second ends 38 and 42 of
each of the flexible members 28 and 30 wherein the flexible members 28
and 30 are urged in opposition directions to each other forming a
receiving opening shown by arrow 44 as depicted by opening 110 in FIG. 14
C.

[0063] In FIGS. 1 through 7, the elastic fabric material is in the form of
fabric material segments 90 and 92. Currency is shown as 100 and cards
within the fold of the currency is shown as 104.

[0064] FIG. 8, which is a left side elevational view of the card and
currency carry device of FIG. 1, shows by dashed lines 120 a card 104 and
small amount of folded currency 100 holding card 104 being stored there
between located within and being held by side member assemblies 22 and 24
in the card and currency carry device 20.

[0065] FIG. 9, which is a front view of the card and currency carrying
device 20 of FIG. 3 rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise with the left
side being positioned at the bottom location, shows by dashed lines 122
and 124 a small amount of folded currency 100 of any country securing a
card 104 in the card and currency carrying device 20.

[0066] FIG. 10, which is a left side elevational view of the card and
currency carry device 20 of FIG. 1, shows by dashed lines 128 large
amount of folded currency 100 securing a large number of cards shown by
dashed lines 130 with the cards being stored in the center folded axis of
the card and currency carrying device 20.

[0067] United States Dollars have an elongated length of about 6.14 inches
(about 15.5 cm), a vertical width of about 2.61 inches (about 6.62 cm)
and a thickness of about 0.0043 inches (about 0.010 cm).

[0068] In the preferred embodiment, the card and currency-carrying device
20 is configured for us with United States Dollars having an elongated
length of about 6.14 inches (about 15.5 cm) and a vertical width of 2 and
5/8 inches (about 6.62 cm).

[0069] In the preferred embodiment, the woven, elastic fabric material
operatively connected to the first pair of support members and the second
pair of support members enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable spring
members has an overall height of about 2 and 5/8 inches to accommodate
United States Dollars.

[0070] The width of the card and currency-carrying device 20 of FIGS. 1
through 11 can be selected to be of any desirable width for use. For
example, the woven, elastic fabric material operatively coupled to the
first pair of support member and the second pair of support members
enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable spring members may have an
overall width in the range of about 1/2 inch to about 1 and 1/2 inches.

[0071] In the preferred embodiment, the woven, elastic fabric material
operatively coupled to the first pair of support member and the second
pair of support members enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable spring
members may have an overall width in the range of about 3/4 of an inch.

[0072] However, it is known that the size and dimensions. e.g. length,
width and thickness, of currency of each country can vary. It is within
the teachings of the present invention that the woven, elastic fabric
material operatively coupled to the first pair of support members and the
second pair of support members enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable
spring members can be selected to have a selected workable overall height
to accommodate the currency of a selected of country. Also, the woven,
elastic fabric material operatively connected to the first pair of
support member and the second pair of support members enclosing the pair
of spaced deflectable spring members can be selected to have an overall
width which is useable with the currency of choice.

[0073] In FIG. 11, arrow 48 designates a first pair of generally
rectangular shaped, planar support members 50 and 54 operatively
connected to each side of and enclosing the flexible member 28 forming
the first side member assembly 22. Support member 50 has a first end 56
and a second end 58 and support member 54 has a first end 60 and a second
end 62.

[0074] In FIG. 11, arrow 66 designates a second pair of generally
rectangular shaped, planar support members 70 and 76 operatively
connected to each side of and enclosing the flexible member 30 forming
the second side member assembly 24. Support member 70 has a first end 80
and a second end 82 and support member 76 has a first end 86 and a second
end 88.

[0075] In FIG. 11, an adhesive bonding or glue material 32 is used to
operatively connect the elements or the side member assembled 24 and 26.

[0076] Referring now to FIGS. 1 through 7 and FIG. 11, an elastic fabric
material is formed into a pair of fabric material segments 90 and 92 each
having a selected length and terminating in opposed attachment ends.
Fabric material segment 90 terminates in opposed attachment ends 94 and
96 and fabric material segment 92 terminates in opposed attachment ends
98 and 102 as shown in FIG. 11.

[0077] Each of the opposed attachment ends 94 and 96 of fabric material
segment 90 are operatively connected to the first end 56 of support
member 50 and first end 86 of support member 76. Each of the opposed
attachment ends 98 and 102 of fabric segment 92 are operatively connected
to the second end 58 of support member 50 and the second end 86 of
support member 76.

[0078] In FIG. 11, the fabric material segments 90 and 92 are stitched as
shown by thread 106 to the support members 50 and 76 to provide
structural rigidity to the device.

[0079] When a compression deflection force is concurrently applied to
first ends 56 and 86 and second ends 58 and 88 of side member assemblies
22 and 24, the first pair of support members 50 and 54 and the second
pair of support members 70 and 76 apply a longitudinal tension force to
and expand each of the fabric material segments 90 and 92 in response to
a compression deflection force being applied to the first side member
assembly 20 and the second side member assembly 22.

[0080] In the preferred embodiment, the elastic fabric material segments
90 and 92, as shown in greater detail in FIG. 11, are a woven, elastic
fabric material having a thickness which reduces in dimension in response
to a longitudinal tension force and which maintains its width dimension
in response to a longitudinal tension force. The woven, elastic fabric
material segments 90 and 92 are expanded by a longitudinal tension force
in response to the compression deflection source concurrently being
applied to the first side member assembly 22 and the second side member
assembly 24 including the flexible members 28 and 30 forming the
receiving opening 110, as shown in FIG. 14 C, and contracting the woven,
elastic fabric material segments 90 and 92 back into its original
position in response to a compression deflection force being removed from
said first side member assembly and said second side member assembly.

[0081] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the a
card and currency carrying device 20' having a pair of spaced,
deflectable spring members 28 and 30 each having an undeflected position
and a deflected position responsive to a compression deflection force
applied concurrently thereto. The device 20' includes a first pair of
planar support members 50 and 54 and a second pair of planar support
members 70 and 76 which are structurally similar to the same elements
depicted in FIG. 11 for device 20. The first pair of planar support
members 50 and 54 and a second pair of planar support members 70 and 76
are operatively connected on to each side of and enclosing the other of
the pair of spaced, deflectable spring members 28 and 30 and includes an
endless loop 90 of a woven, longitudinally extendable, elastic fabric
material having a predetermined length located between each of the outer
planar support members 50, 54, 70 and 76 and its adjacent deflectable
spring 28 and 30. The endless loop 90 of a woven, longitudinally
extendable, elastic fabric material is configured to be operatively
connected to the outer planar support members 50, 54, 70 and 76 and its
adjacent deflectable spring 28 and 30 using an adhesive 32 forming an
operative arrangement there between.

[0082] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the
a card and currency carrying device 20'' having a pair of spaced,
deflectable spring members 28 and 30 each having an undeflected position
and a deflected position responsive to a compression deflection force
applied concurrently thereto. The device 20'' includes a first pair of
planar support members 50 and 54 and a second pair of planar support
members 70 and 76 operatively connected on to each side of and enclosing
the other of the pair of spaced, deflectable spring members 28 and 30. An
endless loop 96 of a woven, longitudinally extendable, elastic fabric
material having a predetermined length is located between each of the
inner planar support members 54 and 74 and its adjacent deflectable
spring members 28 and 30. In this embodiment, the endless loop 96 of a
woven, longitudinally extendable, elastic fabric material can be used in
two configurations. In one configuration, the endless loop 96 of a woven,
longitudinally extendable, elastic fabric material is configured to be
operatively connected relative to the inner planar support members 54 and
70 forming an operative arrangement there between.

[0083] In another configuration, the endless loop 96 of a woven,
longitudinally extendable, elastic fabric material is configured to be
operatively connected to the inner support members 54 and 70. forming an
attachment arrangement there between.

[0084] In the embodiment of FIG. 11, as an example, the first pair of
generally rectangular shaped, planar support members 50 and 54 are
operatively connected using an adhesive 32 to each side of and enclosing
the flexible member 28 forming the first side member assembly 22. Support
member 50 has a first end 54 and a second end 58 and support member 54
has a first end 60 and a second end 62.

[0085] In FIG. 11, the support members 50 and 76 are made of leather
material or fabric to give the appearance of a wallet or billfold type
structure. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a sown edging depicted by arrow 26
provides a decorative, finished appearance on the leather. The sown
edging depicted by arrow 26 can be decorative only and not actually used
to join the support member 50 to its adjacent support member 54 or the
sown edging depicted by arrow 26 can be used to join the support member
50 its to its adjacent support member 76. In addition and in order to
provide for a more durable device an appropriate adhesive, bonding or
glue material or glue material can be used

[0086] In lieu of stitching shown by arrow 26, alternate attaching devices
or techniques can be use to join the structure. For example, fasteners,
rivets, a screw and fastener assembly or an appropriate glue of adhesive
applied to the fasteners as well could be used. Examples of adhesives
that could be used as an adhesive are as follows: (1) Resilor Brand
Adhesive for porous substrates, manufacturer by Resinova Chemie Ltd.,
Kanpur, India; (2) Resibond 3010, high quality multipurpose neutral curse
silicone sealant manufactured by Resinova Chemie Ltd., Kanpur, India; and
(3) Bostik Contact Bond manufactured by Bostik.

[0087] Such adhesives can be used to bond or laminate the support members
50 and 54 to the flexible member 28 and to each other to support members
70 and 76 to the flexible member 30.

[0088] In the alternative, the exterior surfaces of support members 50,
54, 70 and 76 can have an external surface formed of other known
materials to give a desired decorative appearance including, without
limitation, finishing materials such as vinyl, cloth, plastic or other
coating materials known to persons skilled in the art for use on
accessory items.

[0089] It is envisioned that the card and currency-carrying device can be
fabricated as a decorative accessory item. The decorative appearance can
be obtained by a variety of techniques and by use of fabrics, color
coating materials and the like. For example, the leather support member
can be a dark color, e.g. black or brown, or the stitching can be a
contrasting color. The exterior of the support member can be fabricated
using a colored material, e.g. a fabric dyed or colored in "hot pink" to
give a desire effect. The exterior surface of the device can be imaged,
printed or embossed in the form of a trademark affixed to the device.

[0090] The elastic fabric material, preferably a woven elastic fabric
material, can be formed of various weaves and material as, such as for
example and without limitation, cotton gabardine, light weight polyester
and cotton insert type plastic, nylon webbing, or other special
constructions including rubber (considered herein as an elastic fabric
material), which exhibit the characteristic of an elastic fabric material
having a thickness which reduces in dimension in response to a
longitudinal tension force and which maintains its width dimension in
response to a longitudinal tension force.

[0091] The functional flexible members which have a first end and an
opposed second end, a undeflected position and a deflected position
responsive to a compression deflection force applied concurrently to the
first end and the second end of each of the flexible members wherein the
flexible members are urged in opposition directions to each other forming
a receiving opening can be used.

[0092] In the preferred embodiment the flexible member is formed of blue
finished and polished 1095 spring steel, 0.008'' thickness which is
available in various widths. In the preferred embodiment, the width used
was 0.75 inches. The above is one example of a stainless steel that can
be used in practicing this invention. It is envisioned that other
stainless steel members or other spring steel members can be use which
functionally meet the above-described criteria.

[0094] FIG. 14 A illustrates that the card and currency carrying device 20
of FIGS. 1 through 7 is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise with the left
side being positioned at a bottom location and in position for a user to
perform the step of inserting folded currency of any country and a card
to be secured by the card and currency carrying device.

[0095] FIG. 14 B illustrates the step of folding currency 100 once along
it vertical width central axis 102 and inserting in the fold a credit
card 104 that extends substantially parallel to the elongated central
axis of the currency 100.

[0096] FIG. 14 C illustrates the step of a user applying a compression
deflection force 106 between the ends of the card and currency carrying
device 20 forming a receiving opening 110 between the side member
assemblies and the step of inserting in the receiving open 110 at a
slight angle the once folded currency 100 and the credit card 104 that
extends substantially parallel to the elongated central axis of the
currency 100.

[0097] FIG. 14 D illustrates the step of a user removing the compression
deflection force 106 between the ends of the card and currency carrying
device 20 urging the side member assemblies into their undeflected
position securing the once folded currency 100 and the credit card 104
that extends substantially parallel to the elongate central axis of the
currency.

[0098] The method discloses and teaches a method for using a card and
currency-carrying device of the present invention. The method comprising
the steps of: (a) forming a card and currency carrying device having a
pair of spaced deflectable flexible member such as spring members, each
of the spring members having a first end and an opposed second end, each
of the spring members having an undeflected position wherein the first
end and the second end are generally planar to each other and a deflected
position responsive to a compression deflection force applied
concurrently to the first end and the second end of each of the spring
members wherein deflectable spring members are urged in opposition
directions to each other forming a receiving opening; a first pair and
second pair of generally rectangular shaped, planar support members
operatively connected to each side of and enclosing the pair of spaced
deflectable spring members; and an elastic fabric material, preferably as
woven, elastic fabric material having a thickness which reduces in
dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force and which maintains
its width dimension in response to a longitudinal tension force, the
woven, elastic fabric material being operatively connected to the first
pair and the second pair of support members enclosing the pair of spaced
deflectable spring members wherein the woven, elastic fabric material is
expanded in response to a compression deflection source being applied to
the pair of spaced deflectable spring members forming a receiving opening
and contracting the woven, elastic fabric material back into its original
position in responsive to a compression deflection source being removed
from the pair of spaced deflectable spring members; (b) folding at least
one item of currency in half along its vertical width center line which
is substantially perpendicular to its central axis and placing in the
fold thereof along its central axis at least one card; (c) applying a
compression deflection force concurrently to the first end and the second
end of each of the flexible members, e.g., spring members, wherein
deflectable spring members are urged in opposition directions to each
other forming a receiving opening; (d) inserting at an angle into the
receiving opening the folded at least one item of currency and at least
one card located in the fold thereof and positioning the same with its
central axis substantially perpendicular to the first pair and second
pair of generally rectangular shaped, planar support members; and (e)
removing a compression deflection force applied concurrently to the first
end and the second end of each of the spring members wherein deflectable
spring members are urged back into its original, generally planar
position clamping and securing the folded at least one item of currency
and at least one card located in the fold thereof.

[0099] The method for using the card and currency carrying device step of
forming includes the woven, elastic fabric material being formed into an
endless loop having a selected diameter and wherein the woven, elastic
fabric material is operatively connected with the first pair and the
second pair of support members enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable
spring members.

[0100] The method for using the card and currency carrying device step of
forming includes the woven, elastic fabric material being formed into an
endless loop having a selected diameter and wherein the woven, elastic
fabric material being is operatively connected to the first pair and the
second pair of support members enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable
spring members.

[0101] The method for using the card and currency carrying device step of
forming includes the first pair and the second pair of support members
enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable spring members are formed of
leather material.

[0102] The method for using the card and currency carrying device step of
forming includes the first pair and the second pair of support members
enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable spring members are formed of a
vinyl material.

[0103] The method for using the card and currency carrying device step of
forming includes the first pair and the second pair of support members
enclosing the pair of spaced deflectable spring members are formed of a
cloth material.

[0104] The method for using the card and currency carrying device step of
forming includes the pair of spaced deflectable spring members being
formed of stainless steel.

[0105] It is envisioned that the card and currency carrying device can be
structured or configured in other sizes, shapes and dimensions and the
method can be used in for other carrying devices, such as, without
limitation, boxes, gifts or packages other than currency and cards. It
will be appreciated that various alterations and modifications may be
made to the card and currency carrying device and method to enhance the
functional characteristics thereof. All such variations and modifications
should be considered to fall within the scope of the invention as broadly
hereinbefore described and as claimed hereafter.

Patent applications in class Spring or resiliently biased about pivot

Patent applications in all subclasses Spring or resiliently biased about pivot